Can DK Metcalf and George Pickens Coexist? Mike Tomlin Weighs In
In trading for DK Metcalf earlier this month, the Pittsburgh Steelers added something to their offense lacked last season — another receiver with George Pickens’ sort of capability. Head coach Mike Tomlin doesn’t pigeonhole the pair as being alike.
At the annual NFL league meeting on Sunday, Tomlin talked about the duo for the first time since the Steelers acquired Metcalf. He pushed back against the belief that they’ll solely serve the same deep-ball purpose in the team’s attack.
“I don’t necessarily view them as similar,” Tomlin said. “They’re both down-field capable, but they’re different people. DK’s a big man. GP is tall. And there’s a difference.”
The Steelers showered the hulking Metcalf with a five-year, $150 million contract, while Pickens is entering the final season of his rookie deal. A few weeks before swapping for Metcalf, Steelers general manager Omar Khan said the team wanted to iron out an extension with Pickens.
Rather than address Pickens’ future in Pittsburgh, Tomlin spoke on how DK Metcalf’s presence could open things up for Pickens, who’s been a game-planning focal point for opponents.
“I don’t know that it affects him in any way directly,” Tomlin said. “The strength of the pack is the pack, and when you have eligibles that are schematic problems for those that defend you, it creates more opportunity for all involved. And I think that’s probably the only lens through which I’ve looked at this to that point.
“I know as a guy who grew up on the defensive side of the ball, man, when you’ve got multiple people schematically (that) you’ve gotta work to minimize, it really challenges you in terms of some of the things you do.”
During his introductory Steelers press conference, Metcalf praised Pickens’ abilities and added that he could learn from Pickens. Metcalf previously worked alongside receivers such as Tyler Lockett and Josh Gordon, he pointed out.